SEPTEMBER 30, 2026
In This Issue 2027 Benefits See What’s Changing New Resource Check out PHXSecure Get Involved Paint Phoenix Purple
Message from the City Manager September 30 marks the official last day of “Monsoon Season,” which began on June 15. When I moved to Phoenix 33 years ago from Kansas, I found the idea of a “monsoon” uniquely fascinating. How could there be a monsoon in a desert? Of course, I quickly found out! Monsoon season means extra alerts for many City of Phoenix staff, especially in Street Transportation, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Fire, Emergency Management and Police.
Remember:
Microbursts, haboobs, lightning, heavy wind and rain events that occur during monsoon season cause damage to streets, signals, trees and city facilities, as well as flooding and drainage issues throughout the city. Our stormwater and floodplain management teams in the City Engineer’s Office, Environmental Programs and Water Services are called into action as well. If storms hit in the middle of the night, City crews are prepared to be called out of bed and into service to the community. Most times, before the sun is up, these teams have put things back in order. Earlier this summer, at 7:00 on a Sunday morning after an overnight dust storm, a friend of mine texted me a picture of one of our dedicated Street Transportation workers putting the finishing touches on a cleanup to his street by raking remaining debris into a pile to be taken away. What we do gets noticed and makes a difference to our residents! As we move into (hopefully) calmer weather this fall, I want to say thank you to our City employees who help our residents make it through monsoon season with as little impact as possible. -Ed
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City of Phoenix Employee Newsletter
Oct. 31: Security Training Due October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and each year the City recognizes this month by ensuring employees have the necessary training to defend against cyber attacks. Every day you keep our City safe by identifying and reporting suspicious cyber activity. This annual training is designed to provide the knowledge to continue to serve as the City’s first line of defense for cybersecurity. The 2026 Security Awareness Training campaign begins Oct. 1 and runs through the end of the month. All employees who have access to the City of Phoenix network are required to complete Security Awareness Training. This includes all full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees, volunteers, interns, and contractors. Training must be completed by Saturday, Oct. 31, to maintain access to the City’s computer network. Learn more by visiting the Annual Security Awareness Training information page. You can start your Security Awareness Training today.
ITS Help Tickets Are Easier To Use We’ve made a few helpful updates to the IT at Your Service Employee Center to make it easier to follow your tickets and share information with ITS. Clearer Ticket Details When you open a request in IT At Your Service you’ll now see three tabs: Activity, Attachments, and Additional Details. These added details make it easier to see what’s happening with your ticket at a glance. Easier Ways to Share Information In the Activity tab, you can now add screenshots, pictures, and links. This makes it simpler to provide context or updates so we can resolve your request faster. Email Digest for Ticket Updates You’ll now receive ticket note and comment updates in a summary digest instead of individual emails. This means fewer interruptions while still keeping you informed. You can always contact the Enterprise Service Desk at 602‑534‑4357. ITS hopes these improvements make managing your requests a little easier.
September 30, 2026
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CyberSecFest
Explore. Experience. Get Cyber Smart.
LEARN |
BOOTHS
WORKSHOPS
Explore. Meet. Learn.
Real skills. Real impact. Earn credit.
BINGO CARD
CONNECT |
FIND THE HACKER
Turn in a complete Solve the clues. bingo card for a Find 5 hackers. chance to win. Win.
EXPLORE
SUPER SWAG BAG
HACKER HOODIES
FOOD
Visit. Learn. Get stamped. Win.
Find. Win. Wear.
Good Food. Do some good with CSFD.
Join the Information Technology Services Department for PHX CyberSecFest, the City of Phoenix’s annual cybersecurity fair. Explore, learn and connect with City teams and department partners. Discover simple ways to stay safer at work and at home.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 7, 2026 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
CITY HALL ATRIUM 200 W. WASHINGTON ST.
VISIT CyberSecFest
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City of Phoenix Employee Newsletter
Welcome to
PHXSecure
YOUR CYBERSECURITY RESOURCE
Your one-stop resource for cybersecurity - at work and at home. PHXSecure brings easy-to-understand cybersecurity information, practical guidance and trusted resources together in one place. Whether you want to protect yourself, support the City or get involved, PHXSecure make it easy to find what you need.
Learn how to protect your identity, money, kids, parents, home technology and yourself while traveling.
Protect My Life Practical guidance to recognize threats, report suspicious activity and use AI safely to protect City information.
SAT Hub
Protect the City
Your home for Security Awareness Training, including training access, resources and important updates.
Stay connected to Information Security through CyberSecFest and other opportunities to learn and get involved.
September 30, 2026
Events
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2027 Benefits Information It’s time to start reviewing your health benefits options for 2027. The open enrollment period opens Oct. 9 and runs through Nov. 6 at 11:59 p.m. This message provides an overview of some of the changes for 2027, and access to resources so you can make an informed decision about the plans that work best for you, your healthcare needs, and your budget.
BCBS Saver’s Choice + HSA Plan Increases The BCBS Saver’s Choice Plan remains the lowest premium option
Monthly Premiums
Individual: $8.72 / month
Family: $28.44 / month
Annual Deductibles
Individual: $2,000
Family: $4,000
Banner | Aetna HMO Increases The HMO Plan provides access to medical coverage with fixed copay and no deductible
Monthly Premiums
Individual: $15.21 / month
Family: $48.29 / month
BCBS PPO Increases The PPO plan includes out-of-network coverage. It is the highest cost option with a separate out-of-network deductible and higher copays.
Monthly Premiums
Individual: $49.12 / month
Family: $155.96 / month
Out-of-pocket Maximum
Individual: $1,500 In-network $3,000 Out-of-Network
Family: $4,500 In-Network $9,000 Out-of-Network
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PHXCONNECT
City of Phoenix Employee Newsletter
Health Savings Account (HSA) Enrollment
Click here for the 2027 Benefits Guide.
We know planning ahead is essential to getting through the open enrollment period with ease. Please keep in mind that open enrollment is the only time of year current employees can adjust benefits and add or remove dependents without a qualifying life event (QLE) such as marriage or having a baby.
You will NOT be automatically enrolled in the HSA when you elect the Saver’s Choice Plan. To receive the employer HSA contribution, you MUST elect (if eligible) to enroll in the HSA during open enrollment. Your voluntary contribution amounts must also be elected each year. The City will continue to contribute $1,125 for individual plans and $2,250 for family plans to your HSA account in 2027.
Health FSA and Dependent Care FSA MUST be re-elected each year. Don’t miss your opportunity during Open Enrollment.
Complete the Health Assessment and PCP Visit Attestation by visiting the Personify Health portal and clicking on the rewards section under the Home Tab on Personify Health.
Log into eCHRIS to review your current benefits elections, then visit the City of Phoenix Benefits website to learn more about 2027 benefits options or register to attend a live Virtual Open Enrollment Information Session.
The Health Assessment must be completed before Dec. 13 to receive your wellness incentive on your first paycheck in Jan. 2027.
Benefits staff are here to guide you through open enrollment and answer your questions.
Wellness Incentive
For assistance, email benefits.questions@phoenix.gov or call (602) 262-4777.
September 30, 2026
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Open Enrollment Scavenger Hunt Get ready to explore, click, and win! Employees enrolled in a City medical plan can join our Open Enrollment Scavenger Hunt for a chance to earn $25 Pulse Cash. Just log in to your Personify Health account, follow the homepage announcement, complete the scavenger hunt survey, and hit submit—you're in! It’s quick, fun, and a great way to engage with your benefits. Don’t miss out!
FROM: OCT. 1 THRU OCT. 31
Join us in celebration of Scott on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2-4 p.m. in the City Hall Assembly Rooms
Upcoming Election Information The next regularly scheduled candidate election for Council Districts 2, 4, 6, and 8 is Nov. 3. Please make sure that you're familiar with A.R. 2.16 related to Political Activity and the Campaign Information Policy that provides guidelines for responding to information and research requests made by candidates. For more visit www.phoenix.gov/elections or contact City Clerk Elections.
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PHXCONNECT
City of Phoenix Employee Newsletter
Making Progress to Our Goal! The 2026 Community Service Fund Drive (CSFD) is now in its 3rd week - and the contributions made so far are impressive. To date, the City has raised 51% of its goal of $703,800. Please continue to make your pledge declarations in eCHRIS - and attend events to help continue to raise money for many worthy causes.
Latest Events An UPDATED CSFD: The Magazine has been published. Inside, you will find information to: Make your pledge declaration Get information about tax credits Find a virtual showcase to attend Learn about department-sponsored events and opportunities. Save this link as the magazine will be updated weekly with new and fun things to do.
CSFD Digital Payment Fees Purchases made using a credit or debit card, ACH, Venmo, or PayPal will incur a processing fee (deducted from purchase amount) to cover the use of digital payment systems.
Sample Purchase: $10 Platform Fee (1.38%)
$0.14
Processing Fees (2.4% avg. + $0.30)
$0.24 + $0.30 = $0.54
Total Donation Received: $9.32
To avoid these fees, consider paying with cash or check.
Mark Your Calendars! This year’s Hands & Hearts Street Fair is happening on Thursday, Oct. 22 outside Phoenix City Hall. More details to come...
September 30, 2026
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Domestic Violence Awareness Month During the month of October, the City of Phoenix recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month through its 14th annual Paint Phoenix Purple Campaign. The City will be providing resources throughout the month, including an employee seminar on Oct. 8. Register in PHXYou HSD138-ILT. Also, look for details about our “Wear Purple” day on Thursday, Oct. 15. For more information or how you can get involved, please visit PaintPhoenixPurple.org.
Go For a Spin: Electrifying Phoenix On Wednesday, Oct. 14, the Office of Sustainability is hosting Electrifying Phoenix, a Ride & Drive event celebrating National Drive Electric Month, and the City's progress toward its electrification goals. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 3rd Avenue between Adams & Monroe Streets, employees are invited to test drive an electric vehicle, get a close-up look at the City's own electric fleet, including an electric bus. There will also be a speaking program at noon from City leadership about what's next for electrification in Phoenix. Register here! Come out, explore, and be part of building a more sustainable Phoenix.
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PHXCONNECT
City of Phoenix Employee Newsletter
Diabetes Prevention & Management Join us for an informative session on diabetes prevention and management, focusing on how family history can affect your overall health. In this webinar, presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield, they’ll discuss key risk factors, early warning signs, and practical strategies to help you better understand and manage blood glucose levels. You’ll also receive useful tools, nutrition tips, and guidance to support healthier habits and long‑term wellness. Details: Wednesday, Oct. 7 | noon Register here Visit PhxHR for more info
Your Vote Needed to Break a Tie The Offices of Environmental Programs and Public Health are launching a campaign to increase access to healthy, inclusive food options at City events and programs. The campaign will share tips and tricks to make menus more accessible for all Phoenix residents, and it will include handson training for City staff who purchase food using City funds. We need your help to break the four-way tie for the name of our Healthy Food Campaign. Please take a moment to vote for your favorite name here. Voting closes on Oct. 6.
The following employees are accepting leave donations. If you would like to help, use eCHRIS. To avoid these fees, consider paying with cash or check. Lupe De La Cruz | Parks & Recreation Rebecca Domigan | Library Sarah Goldberg | Police Erin Hickson | Police Leticia Tidmore | Public Works Erlinda Santos | Police
Employee Leave Request
Complete list of eligible employees: Leave Donation website.
September 30, 2026
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ICYMI: Menopause Series Our popular, evidence‑based wellness series is now live online—making it easier than ever to join, connect, and thrive from anywhere. This empowering program is designed to help you feel your best as you navigate perimenopause, menopause, and beyond.
Each session dives into some important aspects of health: Eating Sleep Don’t miss this chance to invest in your health, gain meaningful support, and build lasting habits—all on your own timeline. All 5 sessions are posted along with the PDFs for each session on PhxHR.
Exercise and pelvic health Stress‑management tools Building supportive relationships
Candle Making Class Looking for a fun, hands-on creative break? Join us for a Candle Making Class where you'll learn to make two custom soy candles, blend your own scents, and follow step‑by‑step guidance from an expert instructor. This event is limited to just 30 participants, so be sure to reserve your spot and submit your information by Oct. 1. Don’t miss out on a relaxing and engaging experience! Details: Tuesday, Oct. 20 | 6 p.m. Register here by Oct. 1 Find more info on PhxHR
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PHXCONNECT
City of Phoenix Employee Newsletter
Featured Job of the Week Application Support Analyst Fire Department Close Date: Oct. 6, 2026 The Phoenix Fire Department’s (PFD’s) Technical Services team supports technology solutions for PFD and 29 partner agencies in the valley. This role helps bridge communication between the Business Solutions team and internal/external stakeholders, analyzing applications, documenting requirements, and providing user training. The position also supports critical public safety systems through troubleshooting, configuration, reporting, and collaboration with various technical teams. Key Responsibilities: Build relationships across PFD to understand needs and recommend technical solutions. Support, configure, and troubleshoot critical Fire Department applications and user access. Evaluate system capabilities across devices and assist with application setup. Develop queries, scripts, reports, and Power BI dashboards. Provide end user training and create clear documentation. Collaborate with programming and technology teams to clarify requirements. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical skills to evaluate systems and improve processes, communicates clearly with both technical and non technical audiences, and works collaboratively to build and maintain effective relationships.
September 30, 2026
SALARY DETAILS: Pay Range: $76,294.40 - $112,715.20 annually Hiring Range: $76,294.40 - $107,348.80 annually Pay Range Explanation: Pay range is the entire compensation range for the position classification. Hiring range is an estimate of where you can receive an offer. The actual salary offer will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, training, and internal equity.
Learn about role responsibilities and more information at phoenix.gov/jobs or log into eCHRIS
The Phoenix Fire Department is excited to partner with Public Safety Answers to bring you online testing. All fire fighter recruits will now be able to take their testing online; there will be no in person testing option. For more information, dates and to begin your process please go to Publicsafetyanswers.com/phoenix
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Join the Conversation Cover Photo: Stock Photo photo taken: unknown